The Department of Public Health and Social Services received two laboratory-confirmed reports of Bordetella Pertussis (pertussis). This brings the total number of confirmed pertussis cases for 2026 to three. 

Epidemiologic case investigation and contact tracing have been initiated to determine the source of the exposure. DPHSS continues to monitor respiratory illness trends across the island. 

Residents can view the latest surveillance figures regarding respiratory illness and historical data on the official Guam Communicable Disease dashboard at: https://elc.guam.gov/epi-reports.

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory illness. Early symptoms of whooping cough appear similar to the common cold and usually include runny or stuffy nose, low-grade fever; and a mild, occasional cough.

About 1-2 weeks after the first symptoms start, people may develop coughing fits, which can last for several weeks. These coughing fits can cause individuals to make a high-pitched “whoop” when they inhale after a coughing fit, vomit during or after each fit, feel tired, have difficulty sleeping, struggle to breathe, or fracture a rib.

Recommended Vaccine for < 7 years old

  • Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP)
  • Recommended schedule: One dose at each of the following ages: 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months, and 4-6 years

Recommended Vaccine for 7-10 years old

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap)
  • Recommended schedule: Individuals who are not fully vaccinated with DTaP: 1 dose of Tdap as part of the catch-up series: if additional doses are needed, use Td or Tdap. A Tdap booster dose to be administered at age 11-12 years old.

Recommended Vaccine for 11-18 years old

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap)
  • Individuals who have not received Tdap: A single dose, preferably at age 11-12 years old.

Recommended Vaccine for 19 years or older

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap)
  • Adults who have not received Tdap previously or for whom vaccination status is unknown should receive a single dose.

Recommended Vaccine for Pregnant Women

  • Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap)
  • One dose during each pregnancy (preferably during 27-36 weeks gestation). If Tdap is not given during pregnancy, administer immediately after delivery.

DTaP and Tdap vaccines funded by DPHSS through the Vaccines For Children Program are for children 18 years and under who are Not Insured, enrolled in Medicaid or Underinsured.

Individuals with private health insurance must contact their primary healthcare provider for vaccine availability.

These vaccines are available for VFC eligible children at the following DPHSS locations: 

  • Northern Region Community Health Center and Southern Region Community:

To schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine, individuals can call NRCHC at (671)- 635-7412/7456/7547 or call the SRCHC at 671-828-7623.

Individuals may also call the Bureau of Family Health and Nursing Services located in the NRCHC at (671)-634-7408 for more information on clinic hours and location.